Community Policing Unit

Community policing is law enforcement philosophy that focuses on crime and social disorder through the delivery of police services which includes aspects of traditional law enforcement, prevention, problem-solving, community engagement and partnerships. Community policing balances reactive responses to calls for service with proactive problem-solving, centered on the causes of crime and disorder. Community policing requires law enforcement and citizens to join together as partners in the course of both identifying and effectively addressing these issues.

The Community Policing Unit, sometimes known as "COP" or Community Oriented Policing, is part of the Special Operations Division and has the unique assignment of patrolling targeted areas throughout the county with the goal of reducing crime and promoting safer communities. Deputies assigned to this unit patrol communities usually in marked vehicles, on bicycles and on foot. This makes them more accessible to the citizens in the areas where they are assigned. The Community Policing Unit is the direct link between the communities that we serve and the Martin County Sheriff’s Office.

MCSO's Community Policing Unit places emphasis on heavy community involvement to accomplish problem solving within the individual communities. These deputies, in conjunction with our crime prevention specialists, are responsible for organizing neighborhood watches, crime prevention tips and personal safety presentations.

Deputies assigned to the Community Policing Unit are each designated to work in specific areas, and are charged with addressing community concerns thru proactive and innovative measures. These areas include Jensen Beach, Fisherman’s Cove / Martin’s Crossings, Golden Gate, Port Salerno, Palm City, Dunbar/Banner Lake (Hobe Sound), South County and Indiantown. Community Policing deputies also address concerns at Martin County's parks, beaches, causeways and special events/festivals within their patrol areas. Our deputies work closely with local citizens, community members and other governmental agencies to assist in promoting positive change through consistent positive interaction.